For Your Benefit
For and about Hawaii's military
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Vets qualify for VA based on standing
Question: What is the general eligibility for VA benefits?
Answer: Eligibility for most VA benefits is based upon discharge from active military service under other than dishonorable conditions. Active service means full-time service, other than active duty for training, as a member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or as a commissioned officer of the Public Health Service, Environmental Science Services Administration or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or its predecessor, the Coast and Geodetic Survey. A veteran is one who has served in the armed forces and has an honorable discharge; a common misconception is that one has either been in combat and/or is retired from active duty to be called a veteran. For additional information on eligibility for VA benefits, contact the Honolulu VA, (800) 827-1000.
Q: What is a service-connected rating? How do I establish one?
A: A service-connected rating is an official ruling by VA that your illness/condition is directly related to your active military service. In addition to compensation and pension ratings, VA Regional Offices are also responsible for administering educational benefits, vocational rehabilitation, and other benefit programs including home loans. To obtain more information or to apply for any of these benefits, contact the Honolulu Regional Office at (800) 827-1000 or visit VA on line at www.va.gov.
If you have questions about your benefits as a veteran, call Fred Ballard at the Veterans Affairs at 433-0049 or visit the VA Web site at
www.va.gov/hawaii or the Star-Bulletin at 529-4747.